SHENYANG, China(AP) Olympic title contenders Brazil and Germany have drawn 0-0 in the Group F opener in women's football at the Beijing Games.

The Germans kept FIFA player of the year Marta from threatening during most of Wednesday's match, but failed to capitalize on their own scoring opportunities. Sandra Smisek hit the crossbar with a header in the 23rd minute, while Renata Costa hit the post with a header for Brazil in the 63rd.

It was the first match between the teams since last year's World Cup final, when Germany came out on top for its second consecutive world title.

The teams are trying to win the Olympic gold for the first time. Germany finished with bronze in Sydney and Athens, while Brazil earned silver in Athens.